CBSE-run schools to encourage students to join Armed Forces

In a bid to dispel the notions regarding a career in the Armed Forces, the Central Board of Secondary Education has instructed its affiliated schools to encourage youngsters to join the defence services.

The board has asked the schools to visit the websites of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force and gather motivational material to educate youngsters on a challenging and satisfying career in the Armed Forces.

Under the general foundation course, a compulsory subject in Class 11, students will be told about the challenges and rewards they can expect if they opt for a career in the defence. The schools have received a letter from the board in this regard on September 12.

School authorities however said that parents are extremely wary about letting their children take up a career in the Armed Forces.

As per the notice, during the two classroom periods earmarked every week for the course, students need to be exposed to prospective career options, general knowledge and current affairs.

Geeta Nair, principal of Rockwoods High School said "We have received the circular and are doing the needful to motivate the students even in the lower classes. Most students aspire for engineering, medical or accountancy careers. We need to get them to think out of the box, strive for a goal more satisfying and useful for the country as well".

"Every year we motivate students to appear in the AFMC (Armed Forces Medical College) exams which can pave way for a career in the medical wing of the defence services. Parents though have little or no interest in sending their children in the Army," said Shailendra Somani, director, MDS senior secondary school.

The school is now planning to organize a sensitization workshop for the parents so that their concerns can be addressed.

Pooja Paul, an NCC cadet said that activities organized are full of thrill and adventure. She looks forward to a career in the Armed Forces but said her parents may not agree to it. "Parents feel when there are a plethora of opportunities in other fields, why choose a career that is so risky," she added.